HOUSTON, Aug. 1, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Cornell Companies, Inc. (NYSE:CRN) today announced the filing of a shelf registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission. After the registration statement becomes effective, the Company may, from time to time, sell up to $75 million of its common stock, preferred stock, debt securities, warrants or certain other securities (collectively, the "Securities"). The shelf registration statement is intended to provide the Company flexibility to raise funds from the offering of the Securities, subject to market conditions and the company's capital needs.

The registration statement relating to the Securities has not been declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission. These Securities may not be sold, nor may offers to buy be accepted, prior to the time the registration statement becomes effective. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell Securities, or the solicitation of an offer to buy Securities, nor will the Company sell Securities in any state or jurisdiction in which the offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of the state or jurisdiction.

About Cornell Companies

Cornell Companies, Inc. (www.cornellcompanies.com) is a leading private provider of corrections, treatment and educational services outsourced by federal, state and local governmental agencies. Cornell provides a diversified portfolio of services for adults and juveniles, including incarceration and detention, transition from incarceration, drug and alcohol treatment programs, behavioral rehabilitation and treatment, and grades 3-12 alternative education in an environment of dignity and respect, emphasizing community safety and rehabilitation in support of public policy. The Company has 71 facilities in 15 states and the District of Columbia with a total service capacity of 18,550.

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